Ground Penetrating Radar Specialist (Antarctica)

The United States Antarctic Program (USAP) has an opening for a Ground Penetrating Radar Specialist supporting National Science Foundation-funded field science in the Antarctic Interior.

This is a physically demanding contractual position supporting field operations in remote Antarctic locations. Candidates must have demonstrated experience assessing glaciological features for safe travel using ground-penetrating radar (GPR) in polar environments, be able to lift up to 35 pounds, and successfully pass a national security background check.

***This is for an alternate position, Deployment to Antarctica is required in this role. Deployment length is expected to be for 5 months, starting in October 2026. The candidate in the position must complete the physical and dental examinations required by the NSF for deploying to Antarctica. ***

Due to contract requirements, US Citizenship is required. Must obtain a Public Trust security clearance prior to start date. This process typically can take 2-4 months to complete.

Primary Responsibilities

• Operate Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) systems mounted on sleds, snowmobiles, or tractors to detect crevasses and other subsurface hazards.
• Provide real-time interpretation of GPR data to support safe travel routes.
• Process raw GPR data using software such as GSSI RADAN to produce actionable maps and reports.
• Interpret data to identify hazards and support safe vehicle operations.
• Perform daily maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of GPR equipment, computers, and associated electronics.
• Work outdoors in extreme cold environments for extended periods, including camping in remote locations.
• Interact professionally with the National Science Foundation, subcontractors, military personnel, government agencies, and Antarctica New Zealand.
• Operate snowmobiles, tracked snow vehicles, fleet trucks, and other assigned equipment.
• Work independently with minimal supervision and provide leadership when required.
• Frequently lift, push, and move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Maintain a safe work environment and ensure safety remains the highest workplace priority.
• Utilize safe travel techniques in crevassed terrain, including roped travel and GPR-assisted navigation.
• Ensure cargo is returned from the field, cleaned, and delivered to the appropriate work centers before redeployment.
• Prepare written reports following Field Safety assignments.
• Perform equipment operation and fueling duties as required.
• Maintain field sites and equipment for Antarctic conditions.
• Maintain organized camps, follow environmental protocols, and manage waste retrograde activities.
• Occasionally work at high altitudes.
• Resolve field challenges, including personnel and resource limitations, as needed.
• Support camp operations, including cooking, food planning, galley tasks, resupply, and general camp/traverse duties.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Geophysics, Geology, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience operating GPR systems in glaciated environments.
• Two to four field seasons operating GPR equipment in glaciated environments.
• Strong proficiency with GPR data processing and interpretation software.
• Experience using ice-penetrating radar as a life safety mitigation tool.
• Proficiency with GPR software such as GSSI RADAN, EKKO Project, or similar applications.
• Previous experience working in polar or other remote field environments.
• Familiarity with GIS software such as QGIS or ArcGIS.
• Experience interpreting satellite imagery and other georeferenced datasets.
• Ability to work independently, as a team member, or in a leadership role with minimal supervision.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience integrating GPS/GNSS data.
• Current CPR certification.
• Current Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification.
• Advanced GIS experience working with multiple geospatial data formats.
• Snowmobile operating experience.
• Heavy or tracked vehicle operating experience.
• Experience processing satellite imagery and georeferenced datasets.

Physical and Other Requirements

• Willingness and ability to deploy to Antarctica for extended periods.
• Successful completion of NSF-required medical and dental examinations.
• Successful completion of employer-required drug screening and background check.
• Successful completion of the NSF Federal Background Check.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work, including heavy lifting, climbing, crawling, and working outdoors in extreme cold.
• Participate in community responsibilities, including housekeeping ("house-mouse"), station cleanup ("daisy-picking"), recycling efforts, and safety initiatives.
• Valid U.S. driver's license.

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Original Posting:

Pay Range:

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.